North America’s largest marine industry trade event , the International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX), is to move to a December date pattern from 2027.
Organisers say the shift in date is in response to feedback from the industry and disruptions caused by hurricane season.
The event will continue to be held at Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, Florida.
This change follows extensive consultation with industry stakeholders and exhibitors, who overwhelmingly supported the move as a way to protect the consistency and reliability of the show and provide opportunities for growth.
“In recent years, hurricanes have caused disruptions and uncertainty for IBEX,” said Mary Velline, IBEX show director.
“We listened carefully to the industry, and the December shift is ideal, allowing us to better serve our community by delivering a dependable, world-class event each year and ensuring the long-term success for our exhibitors.”
Growth
The new IBEX December date pattern was developed in close collaboration with IBEX co-owners, RAI Amsterdam and the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).
“Moving IBEX to December is both a necessary step and a strategic move to ensure the long-term vitality of the show,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, NMMA president and CEO.
“This new timing will give our exhibitors and attendees greater consistency and opportunity for growth year after year.”
The 2025 and 2026 IBEX shows will continue to take place in October with the 2025 show scheduled for October 7 – 9 2025.
IBEX 2026 is scheduled to be held from October 6 – 8 2026, and IBEX 2027 will take place from December 7 – 9 2027.
